Memorial Union Engagement Session | Olivia + Chris

December 24, 2024

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I’m a wedding photographer based in Madison, WI—welcome to my blog! Here, you’ll find wedding tips, venue inspiration, and heartfelt love stories captured with timeless photography. Visit my About Page to learn more!

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Hi, I'm Mariah

A Memorial Union engagement session is the perfect way to capture love stories like Olivia and Chris’s. Located in Madison, WI, the Memorial Union offers breathtaking views of Lake Mendota, gorgeous stairs and pillars that showcase its stunning architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere that’s ideal for romantic photos. Just next door, the Wisconsin Historical Society adds another layer of beauty with its charming gardens and historic appeal, making it an exceptional backdrop for engagement photography.

Olivia and Chris’s journey began in high school when a mutual friend played matchmaker, and they’ve been inseparable ever since. From attending the University of Michigan together to an unforgettable proposal in Paris, their story is filled with moments of joy and love. With Memorial Union as their backdrop, Olivia and Chris’s engagement session is a celebration of their vibrant connection and shared passions.

Why Memorial Union?

Here are some reasons why The Memorial Union is an ideal location for an engagement session:

  • Stunning Lake Mendota Views: The sparkling water provides a breathtaking backdrop, especially during sunrise or sunset.
  • Iconic Terrace Chairs: The colorful chairs are a signature feature, adding a fun and vibrant touch to your photos.
  • Beautiful Architecture: The Memorial Union’s timeless design, including its arches and columns, creates elegant and classic photo opportunities.
  • Variety of Settings: From tree-lined walkways to open green spaces, the venue offers diverse spots to suit every couple’s style.
  • Lively Atmosphere: The Union’s energy adds a unique charm, making it perfect for couples who want a mix of romance and playfulness in their photos.
  • Year-Round Appeal: Whether it’s the lush greenery of summer or the cozy vibes of fall, Memorial Union shines in every season.

These elements combine to make The Memorial Union a perfect blend of natural beauty and architectural charm, creating timeless engagement photos.

Incorporating Personal Touches: Including Your Dog in the Session

What makes Olivia and Chris’s engagement session so special is how it reflects their personalities. They brought along their beloved dog, Ollie, who added a playful and heartwarming touch to the session. Couples who include their pets not only make their photos unique but also capture a piece of their everyday lives. Here are some tips for bringing your dog along to your engagement session:

  • Bring a Leash: Keep your dog safe and secure while transitioning between locations. A stylish leash can also add to the aesthetic of your photos.
  • Pack Treats: Bring your dog’s favorite treats to keep them engaged and happy during the session. Treats can help capture those adorable moments.
  • Exercise Beforehand: Ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise before the session to help them burn off energy and stay calm during the shoot.
  • Designate a Friend: Have a friend come along to drop off and pick up your dog. Since dogs will likely only be featured for 15-30 minutes, this ensures they aren’t stressed or bored while waiting.
  • Be Patient: Dogs can be unpredictable, so keep a positive attitude and be flexible if things don’t go exactly as planned.

Securing Your Permit for a Memorial Union Engagement Session

Planning an engagement session at The Memorial Union? One important step is securing a permit in advance. The Wisconsin Union requires a photo and video approval request to ensure your session runs smoothly. To obtain the permit, fill out the form provided on their Photo/Video Approval Request page. Their team will review your form responses and be in contact with you soon with a decision. Please allow at least four non-holiday business days (Monday-Friday) for a response. Submitting the request ahead of time ensures your date is secured, and you can fully enjoy the session without interruptions.

Capturing This Season of Life

For Olivia and Chris, their engagement session isn’t just about creating beautiful photos—it’s about preserving the essence of this season in their lives. When asked what they want to remember, Olivia shared that it’s their happiness and the giddy, head-over-heels love they feel for one another.

Chris’s favorite thing about Olivia? Her laughter, especially when she laughs at his jokes—even the cheesy ones. Olivia loves that she can be her full, authentic self around Chris and appreciates his unwavering support in everything she does. Together, they want these photos to be a reflection of their pure and enduring love, a love that they’ll look back on fondly even 10 years from now.

Documenting Authentic Moments

One of the most beautiful aspects of Olivia and Chris’s engagement session at the Memorial Union was the emphasis on documenting authentic moments. Here are some ideas to ensure your session reflects the genuine connection between you and your partner:

  • Be Yourself: Allow your natural chemistry to shine through. Laugh, cuddle, and engage in conversation. The best photos often come from candid moments when you’re simply being yourselves.
  • Focus on Each Other: Rather than worrying about the camera, concentrate on your partner. Share inside jokes, reminisce about your relationship, or simply enjoy each other’s company. This will lead to genuine expressions and emotions in your photos.
  • Explore the Location: Take advantage of the stunning views and unique features of the Memorial Union, such as the gorgeous stairs and pillars. Walk hand-in-hand, dance together, or simply enjoy the scenery, allowing your photographer to capture you in your element.
  • Don’t Rush: Take your time during the session. Rushing can lead to stiff poses and forced smiles. Enjoy the process and allow the moments to unfold naturally, creating a relaxed and enjoyable experience.

Celebrating with Champagne

Adding a celebratory element to your engagement session can make it even more memorable, and what better way to do that than by popping a bottle of champagne? Here are some tips on how to incorporate this fun and festive moment into your shoot:

  • Choose a Perfect Spot: Find a scenic location at the Memorial Union, such as by the lake or on the steps of the Union, to set the scene for your champagne pop. The beautiful backdrop will enhance the celebratory vibe and provide stunning visuals.
  • Bring Flutes or Cute Glasses: Having a couple of stylish champagne flutes or unique glasses can elevate the experience. Choose something that complements your outfits and adds a touch of elegance to your photos.
  • Enjoy the Moment: After popping the champagne, take a moment to toast to your love and future together. Share a sweet kiss or a laugh as you sip from your flutes. These intimate moments will add depth to your photos and highlight the love you share.

Exploring Nearby Locations: Wisconsin Historical Society

Just a minute’s walk across the street from the Memorial Union is the Wisconsin Historical Society, another fantastic spot for engagement photos. This historic building features beautiful architecture that adds timeless elegance to your images.

  • Architectural Beauty: The intricate details and classic design of the Wisconsin Historical Society provide a stunning backdrop for your engagement photos.
  • Nearby Fountain: The charming fountain in front of the building adds a dynamic element and creates a peaceful atmosphere, especially with sunlight glistening on the water.
  • Gorgeous Blooms: The lush bushes and landscaping bloom beautifully in the spring and summer, enhancing your photos with vibrant colors and greenery.
  • Versatile Backdrops: With the combination of the building, fountain, and gardens, you’ll have a variety of stunning backdrops to create diverse and visually appealing images.

Tips for a Memorable Memorial Union Engagement Session

Choose the Right Time of Day: Start at least two hours before sunset or right at sunrise to take advantage of the best lighting for photos. This allows for soft, warm glows that complement the Memorial Union’s natural beauty.

Plan Ahead: Ensure you have your permit approved and keep a copy on hand during your session.

Dress Comfortably: Choose outfits that reflect your style while being comfortable enough to move around. Memorial Union offers various scenic spots, so you’ll want to explore!

Embrace the Environment: Take advantage of the unique features of the Memorial Union, such as the stunning architecture and views of Lake Mendota. Interact with your surroundings—lean against the iconic pillars, walk hand-in-hand down the steps, or enjoy a quiet moment by the lake to create dynamic and engaging photos.

By following these tips, you can create a memorable engagement session at the Memorial Union that beautifully showcases your love story.

Reflecting on The Session

When Olivia and Chris look back on these photos, they want to relive the happiness of their engagement. Each image will serve as a time capsule, reminding them of their carefree laughter, shared dreams, and the joy they felt in this chapter of their lives.

Their session is a testament to the beauty of love rooted in friendship and shared passions. The Memorial Union provided the perfect canvas for their story, capturing the joy and authenticity of their relationship.

Why a Memorial Union Engagement Session Is Perfect for You

If you’re planning an engagement session in Madison, WI, the Memorial Union offers an unbeatable combination of charm, history, and breathtaking views. It’s a space that allows couples to celebrate their unique love stories in a setting that feels both grand and intimate.

As you prepare for your session, think about the unique aspects of your relationship. Whether it’s the moments you share, your favorite activities, or personal details that hold special meaning, focusing on these elements will help create a memorable experience.

A Memorial Union engagement session truly provides the perfect backdrop to showcase your story and celebrate the start of a new chapter together.

Looking for more engagement session inspiration? Check out these beautiful sessions:

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